Things to do this weekend in and around Rochester
Friendly fun in Rochester & Western New York for Friday, September 11, 2026 through Sunday, September 13, 2026
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, September 11, 2026
Kick off your family weekend with classic hometown excitement at Rochester Red Wings vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, where kids can cheer under the lights and soak up the final season homestand energy at Innovative Field. If you’d rather float than field, climb aboard the canalside favorite Lunch and Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise Aboard Sam Patch, where live narration and a working lock turn lunchtime into a living history lesson. Theatre-loving families can settle into comfy seats for Performance: Wonderland - The Musical at OFC Creations, a fresh, pop-infused spin on Alice’s adventures that reminds everyone that “ordinary magic happens every single day.” For parents and teens looking for a thought-provoking night out, Blackfriars Theatre presents EUREKA DAY offers a sharp, funny look at modern debates and what it means to find common ground in our community.
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Saturday is packed with ways to explore, imagine, and play together, starting with the story-rich Scenic River and Canal Cruise Aboard Riverie, where narrated views of the Genesee River, Erie Canal, and Rochester skyline make for a beautiful family outing on the water. Budding performers ages 13–18 can take a step toward the stage at Auditions for The Outsiders, a welcoming chance at Spotlight Studios to try out for a beloved coming-of-age story. As evening falls, families who love a little seasonal sparkle can wander the glowing jack-o’-lantern displays and dinosaur-after-dark fun at Enchanted Pumpkin Trail at the Buffalo Zoo!, a magical way to welcome autumn. Creative teens and adults can dive into hands-on heritage crafts at Genesee Country Village & Museum in the Dyeing Yarn Workshop, where spinning, color, and history come together, or carve and print their own design in the companion Printmaking Workshop, perfect for art-loving families who want to learn traditional techniques side by side.
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Wrap up the weekend with a Sunday that mixes adventure, coziness, and creativity, beginning at Safari Tours At Hidden Valley Animal Adventure!, where kids can ride through 63 acres to feed camels, zebra, emu, bison, and more on an unforgettable open-air animal safari. Little climbers can conquer new heights at Guided Climbing at RocVentures Climbing Gym, a one-hour, staff-led session designed to keep first-timers safe, confident, and smiling as they learn the ropes. Families who enjoy music and cool visuals can head to RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium for Laser Elton John - Matinee, where beloved hits play out in colorful laser light that dazzles kids and parents alike. For a cozy fall finish, cruise with fresh cider and donuts from Powers Farm Market on the delightfully seasonal Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Riverie - Corn Hill Landing, or head to Pittsford for the sister experience Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Sam Patch - Pittsford, NY, both offering crisp breezes, canal views, and tasty treats that make Sunday feel like a celebration of the season.